Building structures is barely scratching the surface when it comes to real estate—it involves value creation, community development, and maintenance over a long period of time.
My experience in Construction and Real Estate propelled me into understanding firsthand what works in development and what doesn’t. Which is why I often say, success is not random or serendipitous—it requires exacting plans, tough choices, and rigid commitment to excellence.
Throughout my career I have worked on a diverse range of real estate and construction projects, from large residential estates to complex commercial buildings, which cumulatively taught me that three elements make a real estate project successful: location, master planning, and construction quality.
Let’s analyze them.
1. Location: The Cornerstone of Real Estate Development
We often hear “Location, location, location” – but what does it really mean? Negative connotation to the phrase’s center is that it refers exclusively for real estate agents of foremost importance. A strong location, for example, doesn’t just means being in the midst of the city’s central area. It means the area is accessible, there is a demand for it, and potential for growth long down the line.
What Makes a Good Location?
✅ Accessibility: Is commuting to work, school, and essential services a simple task for residents?
✅ Infrastructure: Are the roads, utilities, and other necessary amenities developed, or will they take a long time to be built?
✅ Demand & Growth: Is there a market for new housing or a commercial real estate in that region?
✅ Long Value: Is this area going to appreciate and be a positive investment in the future?
Lessons From My Experience
When we were developing Rugsan Gardens and Aragsan Village, we chose land very carefully. We analyzed growth trends, ongoing infrastructure projects and buyer demand. The projects were located conveniently near major roads and services for resident and investor servicing.
✅ Insight: A great location is not determined by where the market is at that moment, but where the market will be in 5 to 10 years.
2. Master Planning: Communities Should Be More Than Buildings
A successful real estate project goes beyond just selling houses; it requires the creation of a community that people want to live in.
A master plan is what allows a community to function as a unit instead of remaining a random collection of elements.
Key Elements of a Good Master Plan:
✅ Different Things in One Place: Residential, shopping, and entertainment zones need to be integrated to enhance quality of life.
✅ Organized Road Systems: Good planning reduces traffic and allows effective movement.
✅ Quality of Parks and Other Facilities: More parks, sidewalks, and public spaces increase quality of life.
✅ Services Arrangement: Planning for water, electricity, and waste from day one makes the project’s development easier.
Lesson from My Experience
In Salaam City, an increase in lifestyle standards was catered for by having green areas for parks and wide roads with appropriate parking. The proposition was not just houses, but an entire planned community serviced with all necessary infrastructure, services, and civic amenities.
Takeaway: A community that has buildings should never look like a housing estate whose primary purposes are to sell these buildings.
3. Construction Quality: The Divide in Temporary and Permanent Success
The most unpardonable error a developer can make is opting for superficial, capricious shortcuts in construction. While it seems money saving in the short run, substandard construction results in expensive maintenance, discontented customers and a damaged reputation for the long haul.
What Does Quality Construction Entail?
✅ Durability Begins with Sound Bases: Unsuitable soil and engineering assessments will trigger structural failure further down the line.
✅ Use of Quality Materials: There is durability in the use of cement, steel and finishes.
✅ Artistry and Mastercraft: The finest artistry could render the best materials useless.
✅ Safety Precautions: Engineering laws ensure the construction is safe and strong.
Lesson from My Experience
On all our projects, we focus on engineering integrity—from strong foundations to high-quality finishes. For example, before starting construction, we always conduct geotechnical testing to ensure the land can support the planned structures.
✅ Takeaway: Durable projects boost the reputation of the developer.
Final Thoughts: Setting the Right Expectations for Real Estate Development 💡
The most successful real estate developments aren’t rushed—they’re planned with a clear vision.
Everything has to be thought out beforehand. Picking a location, planning a community, or ensuring quality construction, every decision matters.
As developers, we must think beyond immediate sales and focus on creating projects that stand the test of time. The market rewards those who prioritize quality, trust, and long-term value.
What in your opinion is the most difficult issue in real estate development currently?
I would love to hear your views in the comments.
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About the Author: Mustafa Suldan
Mustafa Suldan is a global real estate expert and business strategist with 21 years of experience, most recently in East Africa. He has led major projects such as Rugsan Gardens, Aragsan Village, and a $1 billion development in Djibouti. Specializing in off-plan sales, construction management, and urban planning, he is dedicated to driving sustainable growth in the region.
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